The State of Arizona is making it possible for up to 700 students to participate in a pilot Pre-K readiness program, Waterford Upstart, that teaches preschool-aged children basic skills they need in reading, math, and science, to prepare them for success in kindergarten and beyond. MUSD is pleased to promote this to our families as an early childhood education option. This pilot program is funded by the governor’s discretionary ESSER funds. Last year, approximately 100 students from MUSD enrolled in the program.
The online program is designed for four-year-olds preparing to begin kindergarten in August 2024. Priority will be given to students not enrolled in any sort of Pre-K program, however, the program states that almost all who register will be accepted.
Waterford Upstart provides award-winning software, online activities and resources, and family-focused guidance at no cost to participants. Participants will receive:
- Personalized family education and coaching to help you support your child’s learning
- A new computer, if needed
- Internet, if needed
- Adaptive educational software focused on early reading, math and science
“Waterford Upstart is a quality national program and a consistent means of providing Pre-K students with opportunities to build academic skills and routines ahead of kindergarten. We encourage our Marana families with future kindergarten students to consider this free educational resource,” said Denise Linsalata, executive director for state and federal programs.
The program reports success in states where it has been launched. On average, graduates enter kindergarten reading at almost a first-grade level, and academic gains continue through the fourth grade, especially among under-resourced populations. Families are provided with everything they need to complete the program.
The program is restricted to families residing in areas outside of the Tucson and Phoenix metro areas. Native American students statewide are eligible to participate.
Consider enrolling your future Marana student today! For more information or to enroll, visit waterford.org/upstart.